Cogadh Interview

 

1.For those that have never heard of you before, can you tell us a little bit about the musical project?

Cogadh is a Black Metal duo from Ontario and Quebec, Canada. Ira play the guitars and bass on the EP while Alex does vocals and the drums. We use a combination of melodic riffs followed by more traditional Black Metal melodies that helps capture the best of both areas in Black Metal. 

2.In September you have an ep coming out, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical style that you went for on the recording?

The EP release date is actually in October, the musical style we used for the recording was a combination of traditional Black Metal, with elements of thrash, folk and heavy metal. We also threw some pagan/folk metal elements with clean, raw and echoing voices/singing on some of the songs.  

3.A lot of your lyrics cover Irish Mythology themes, can you tell us a little bit more about your interest in this topic?

We’ve always enjoyed music that explains stories and folklore of the past. The ideologies of ancient cultures are really rich in ideas, morals and depth. It’s the perfect scenario for making a song. Also since the name of the band is Cogadh (which comes from the Gaelic culture in Scotland and Ireland) having songs about ancient tales of the U.K and Ireland seem fitting.

4.I know that the band name is Gaelic for 'war', how does this name fit in with the musical style that you play?

War is chaotic, sometimes long and drawn out, plus it finishes in a different place then when it started. In relation to our music, our songs sometimes are epic and long. We also progress through different styles of playing (aggressive riffs followed by melodies) and usually finish the song in a different spot then when it started. Our songs can also be quick and to the point, full of attack, much like in war. 

5.Can you tell us a little bit more about the artwork that is present on the ep cover?

An artist named Manuel Scapinello from Italy did this artwork for us, his stuff is amazing and we really recommend everyone check out his stuff! It’s the perfect balance between nature, solitude and a looming grimness with the fortress in the background and serpent imagery. The black and white also adds to the raw atmosphere and allows the details to blend perfectly together. Great for Black Metal, check his stuff out!

6.Currently there are only 2 members in the band, are you open to expanding the line up or do you prefer to remain a duo?

For the time being we plan on being a 2 piece band, however we still do plan on playing live with sessional musicians. It is hard to say right now if we will expand into a larger line up. 

7.On the ep you also done an 'Immortal' cover, what was the decision behind doing your own version of one of their songs?

Not many have done a cover of Pure Holocaust that we are aware of. It’s an underestimated Immortal track and we thought it would be great to give it shot and do a cover that most bands haven’t tried yet. 

8.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?

We wanted to work with promoters first to see how the results were from the EP. In the long run, looking for a label would be the ideal plan.

9.On a worldwide level how has the reaction been to your music by fans of black metal?

We haven’t had any songs released yet as this is our debut. However; we’ve received positive feedback from promoters, and with that we think most people would like our material.

10.When can we expect a full length and also where do you see yourself heading into as a musician during the future?

The goal will be to do a full length album next, perhaps a year from now. Looking ahead, we see ourselves continuing to make music and release material at a consistent basis. Regardless of where Cogadh goes, it will always be something we continue to develop. 

11.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?

Havukruunu, Taake and Primordial overall. Black Metal bands that combines melodic riffs with traditional Black metal elements, Havukruunu would definitely be a large influence. 

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?

Check out the EP! It’s a really great work of art and contains all the elements that make Black Metal great! And thanks again for this interview! 

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